Cats: 10 Mistakes that Most People Make

When you get a pet, like a dog, it means that you’re ready for the responsibility that comes with it. If we take into account the fact that over 40% of Americans own dogs, they are the preferred choice of pets. As part of a co-evolutionary cycle, dogs have adjusted and evolved to acquire certain physical traits and personalities that people love. Those that are only now adopting a dog has to consider numerous factors before they open their doors for pets.

Before officially becoming a dog owner, here are the top three things to consider.

1. Monitor their Eating

Those that haven’t actually become dog owners before, you might become a bit too excited with a furry and fun companion to go with you wherever you please. Don’t let their cute appearance and fun personalities distract you from the fact that they also require care and attention that you, as the owner, has to provide. Dogs are prone to a lot of unwanted digestive issues, especially if they eat the wrong kind of food. Apart from grapes, garlic, wine, avocado and oils, owners should avoid giving their dogs junk food that people just eat for fun. Another issue is when dogs don’t drink an adequate amount of water; when this happens, you should either add some more water into a bowl of dry food or add wet food in their diet. Since dogs are energetic, they tend to be dehydrated, especially when the weather is hot; an additional challenge for the dog is when they’re just getting used to their surroundings and don’t know where to get water.

2. Discipline

On one hand, you want the dog to run around freely and enjoy, but on the other it’s also important to give some kind of structure for them to follow. By opting out professional discipline courses for the dog, you have to step in as the teacher. New dogs and puppies have to be trained to walk on leashes first and once they’re used to it, pay attention to their pace and speed.

3. Keep them Social

The fact that dogs and people are social creatures allows them to get along well. As long as a dog is given enough chances to socialize early in your ownership or at a young stage in their lives, they become sociable with other animals. The mean looking dogs that snap and bark at any casual passersby are likely undisciplined and don’t spend time with other dogs. Dogs that run around and mingle with other dogs get a feel of what actual threats look like and thus behave better than dogs who aren’t exposed.